HDFC Bank Hosts Comprehensive Cyber Fraud Awareness Workshops in Andhra Pradesh

 

The sessions were aimed to sensitize college students on the critical aspects of digital banking safety.

Andhra Pradesh, February 08, 2024: HDFC Bank as a part of a digital banking awareness drive, hosted a series of secure banking workshop in Andhra Pradesh to equip the young generation with essential skills and knowledge on safe digital banking practices.

HDFC Bank hosted fraud awareness workshops in schools and colleges in Visakhapatnam, Vizag, Vijayawada, Nellore, Rajahmundry and Guntur. Through these interactive sessions, over 800 students and staff gained valuable insights on safe digital banking practices so that they don’t fall prey to Cyber Frauds.

The workshop covered an array of pertinent topics, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of digital security:

1. IFAW's Background: Attendees were introduced to the mission/role of International Fraud Awareness Week in advocating digital awareness.

2. Cyber Fraud Awareness: Detailed discussions were held explaining common cyber threats like Vishing, Phishing, Smishing, remote device access, SIM swap, and UPI frauds. Real-life examples were used to deepen understanding.

3. Secure Netbanking and Shopping Tips: The sessions highlighted best practices for secure online transactions, spotlighting the significance of Vigil Aunty and offering invaluable tips for safe online shopping.

4. Preventive Measures: Attendees were guided not to divulge sensitive information such as OTPs, CVVs, Debit/Credit card PINs, and UPI pins.

Commenting on this Mr. Manish Agrawal, Executive Vice President – Credit Intelligence and Control – HDFC Bank said, “Today the young generation is transacting more on digital platforms, hence it is important to create awareness among them about various modus operandi used by fraudsters and the secure banking practices that they need to follow so that they do not become victims of online frauds. Citizens mustn’t share confidential banking data with anyone or click on unverified links. The objective of this session was to ingrain safe banking practices among the participants at a very early age.”

In the current financial year (FY24), HDFC Bank has conducted over 6,200 such sessions PAN India and reached out to over 79,000 participants covering various segments of society. These workshops are aimed at educating schools, colleges, customers, law enforcement agencies, senior citizens, Self-Help Groups, educational institutions, vendors, partners and employees, among others. 

The Bank encourages customers to be cautious and adopt safe banking habits while transacting digitally and avoid sharing their confidential banking information with anyone. In case a customer falls prey to frauds, they must get in touch with their respective branch immediately and call 1930 (Helpline number by National Cybercrime Reporting Portal).